2007 Annual Report - Institute for Environmental Monitoring and ...

Institute for Environmental Monitoring and ResearchEleventhAnnual ReportInstitute for EnvironmentalMonitoring and ResearchQuananiche Brook2007

P a g e 4 I n s t i t u t e f o r E n v i r o n m e n t a l M o n i t o r i n g a n d R e s e a r c h 2 0 0 7 A n n u a l R e p o r tStatementfrom the ChairThis 2007 Annual Report represents the secondyear of operation for the Institute for EnvironmentalMonitoring and Research (IEMR) under the revisedMemorandum of Understanding (MOU) with theDepartment of National Defence (DND).To comply with the revised MOU, the Institute hasrevised many of its operational procedures. AllInstitute monitoring and research initiatives for 2007were initiated following a public tendering process.The Institute specified the responsibility anddeliverables for each contract, and the contractorswere responsible to ensure that all the necessarypermits and documents were obtained from theAboriginal, Provincial and Federal agencies.The Institute modified its data reporting procedureswith DND in order to comply with the operationalrequirements of 5 Wing Goose Bay. The Instituteand DND continue to review and adjust themonitoring priorities in order to enhance the viabilityof the revised training program while ensuring theconcerns of the Aboriginal people and the protectionof the natural environment are maintained.The members of the Scientific Review Committee(SRC) have continued to play a key role in ensuringthat credible science-based information is collectedon noise disturbance associated with new trainingvenues and that appropriate mitigation measures areimplemented by DND. The SRC, along with itsassociated committees of technical experts, havebeen actively involved with the refinement of theBoomCast model which will assist in predictingsupersonic noise level thresholds at varying altitudes.The SRC and the technical committees continueto address the knowledge gaps associated with theeffects of noise disturbance from various militarytraining initiatives to ensure an appropriate level ofprotection, particularly for species that have beengranted special protection status, and also specieswhich are of particular concerns to the Aboriginalpeople.With the introduction of the Species at Risk Act(SARA) Legislation, the Institute has undertaken acomplete review of the valued ecosystem components(VECs) listing which was developed in thepreparation of the original Environmental ImpactStatement (EIS). In the course of its continueddiscussions with the Aboriginal communities, theInstitute has initiated a comprehensive review of theVECs which may be impacted by noise associatedwith the military training program.The Institute continues to assist in facilitatingmeetings with DND and the Aboriginalrepresentatives to address issues of particularconcern to the Aboriginal communities.Through its publications and web site, theInstitute provides an open forum where interestedindividuals can have access to the monitoring andeffects research reports produced by the Institute.As future military training initiatives associated withGoose Bay continue to be defined, the Institute willneed to adjust its monitoring initiatives to ensurethat the wildlife populations are protected fromadverse noise disturbance. It is essential that theInstitute continues to work in close collaborationwith DND and the provincial governments to ensurethat each training initiative proposed is evaluatedwithin an adaptive mitigation framework whichrespects the management responsibilities of both5 Wing Goose Bay and D Air CFG. This will ensurethat any new information associated with the impactsof noise disturbance is integrated into the mitigationprogram in a timely fashion to ensure theprotection of the wildlife population and theviability of the military program.Louis LaPierre, Ph.D.Institute ChairDr. Louis LaPierre

Boardof DirectorsVoting Board MembersInnu NationMr. Richard NunaTown of Happy Valley – Goose BayMrs. Madelyn KellyNunatsiavut GovernmentMs. Marina Biasutti/ Mr. James GoudieCentral Labrador EconomicDevelopment Board, Inc.Mr. Geoff GoodyearMakivik Corporation*Mr. Stas OlpinskiMunicipalité régionale de comté de MinganieMr. Jacques Landry /Mr. Richard NoëlLabrador Metis NationMs. Tammy LambourneChurchill Falls Town OfficeMr. Francis ClarkeMamit InnuatMr. Guy Bellefleur /Mr. András MákNaskapi Nation of Kawawachikamach*Mr. John Mameamskum*Rotational two-year basisNon-Voting Board MembersDepartment of National DefenceD AIR CFGCol J. D. GuérinDepartment of National Defence5 Wing Goose BayCol Mark Matheson/LCol Mark LeGresleyGovernment of Newfoundland and LabradorMr. Ron BowlesGovernment of QuebecMr. Denis VandalEnvironment CanadaMr. Doug Bliss2 0 0 7 A n n u a l R e p o r t I n s t i t u t e f o r E n v i r o n m e n t a l M o n i t o r i n g a n d R e s e a r c h P a g e 5Mealy Mountains

P a g e 6 I n s t i t u t e f o r E n v i r o n m e n t a l M o n i t o r i n g a n d R e s e a r c h 2 0 0 7 A n n u a l R e p o r tInstitute for EnvironmentalMonitoring and ResearchThe Institute was established in 1995 in responseto a recommendation by an independentEnvironmental Assessment Panel appointed to reviewmilitary flight training activities from the CanadianForces Base at Goose Bay. Its purpose is to overseethe environmental effects of Allied flight trainingconducted over areas of Labrador and northeasternQuebec. The Institute is governed by a Board ofDirectors representing Aboriginal and municipalgroups in the region with interests in militarytraining activities operated from 5 Wing Goose Bay.The Board has an independent Chair and non-votingmembers representing federal and provincialgovernments.The Institute has a primary interest in working with allparties affected by military training. It has developedan atmosphere of trust and respect amongst memberssharing different values and visions.The original MOU establishing the Institute expiredon March 31, 2006. A renewed grant agreement andMOU has since been signed with DND enabling theInstitute to continue to operate and meet itsobjective as an independent research and monitoringbody until March 31, 2010. Prior to the expiration ofthe current MOU, the Institute and DND will assessthe current training activities and identify futureoptions for the Institute.MISSIONThe Institute is an independent arm’s lengthorganization from DND and reports to the Ministersof Environment and National Defence. It conductsscientific research and monitoring initiatives onthe Labrador and northeastern Quebec ecosystemswithin the Low-Level Training Area (LLTA) related tomilitary training activities. It also conducts researchon the socio-economic effects of these activities.The Institute will offer scientifically supportedrecommendations to the Ministers on the results ofthese studies should it conclude that the militarytraining does cause significant impacts that cannotbe effectively mitigated.MANDATEAs an independent advisory body to the Ministers ofEnvironment and National Defence, the Institute’smandate is to:• Focus on the protection of the environment and,within the concept of sustainable development,support the viability of the military flight-trainingprogram;• Provide independent verification of environmentaleffects as well as expertise and advice onstructuring adequate monitoring and mitigationmeasures; and• Foster a level of trust amongst all groups affectedby the military training program.In the event that studies show significant impacts areoccurring that cannot be mitigated or justified, theInstitute may recommend that appropriate actionsbe taken to address the situation including makingrecommendation to the Ministers of Environmentand National Defence that military flying activities belimited or phased out.OBJECTIVESIn order to carry out this mandate, specific objectiveshave been identified:• Initiate, coordinate, support and conductenvironmental research;• Monitor effects and propose mitigation measuresassociated with the activities of military trainingover Labrador and northeastern Quebec;• Foster inclusion or incorporation of Aboriginalenvironmental knowledge and cooperation inresearch and monitoring activities amongst theDepartment of National Defence, scientificestablishments, research institutions, consultants,and universities interested in the mandate andobjectives of the Institute;• Promote a solid understanding and flow ofinformation with the public on the work of theInstitute.Hebron Church

OrganizationalChart* MakivikCorporation* Naskapi Nation ofKawawachikamachInnuNationLabrador MetisNationNunatsiavutGovernmentVoting Board MembersMamitInnuatTown of HappyValley-Goose BayMRC deMinganieChurchill FallsTown OfficeCentral LabradorEconomicDevelopment BoardBoard of DirectorsEnvironmentCanadaGovernment ofQuebecGovernment ofNewfoundlandand LabradorNon-Voting Board MembersScientificReview CommitteeThe SRC consists of a group of recognized experts infields related to the types of impacts anticipated fromthe military flying program. They have been selectedfor their experience and knowledge on issues relatedto the northern ecosystem and its people. Membersof the SRC carry out the following roles:• Serve as a scientific advisory group to the Board;• Provide scientific direction and support for themonitoring and research activities approved by theBoard;• Establish the peer review process for all scientificpublications from the Institute;DNDD AIR CFGMinister of National DefenceMinister of EnvironmentDND5 Wing Goose BayDr. Louis LaPierreChairAdministrativeManagerSupport Staff*Rotational two-year basisMembers of the Scientific Review CommitteeChair:Members:Scientific ReviewCommitteeTechnicalCommittees• Ensure scientific accuracy and integrity, and definethe precise goals and objectives for all monitoringand research activities undertaken by the Institute;• Ensure the relevance of the proposed monitoringand research activities to the mandate of theInstitute;• Analyze and assess the results of the monitoringand research activities;• Advise the Board on the monitoring and researchpriorities.Dr. Louis LaPierre, Professor Emeritus, University of MonctonDr. Jean Huot, Retired, Laval UniversityMr. Gerry Parker, Retired, Canadian Wildlife ServicesDr. Fred Roots, Scientist Emeritus, Environment CanadaDr. David Schneider, Memorial University of NewfoundlandMr. Bruce Turner, Retired, Canadian Wildlife Service2 0 0 7 A n n u a l R e p o r t I n s t i t u t e f o r E n v i r o n m e n t a l M o n i t o r i n g a n d R e s e a r c h P a g e 7

P a g e 8 I n s t i t u t e f o r E n v i r o n m e n t a l M o n i t o r i n g a n d R e s e a r c h 2 0 0 7 A n n u a l R e p o r tInstitutePoliciesRESEARCH PRIORITIESThe Board of Directors is responsible for setting theresearch priorities for the Institute and ensures thatthe relevant criteria and policies are followed insoliciting contractors and awarding funding forresearch.In 2006, in keeping with the principles ofaccountability established by the federal government,a call for Statements of Interest was conducted toidentify companies interested in contractual workassociated with the Institute’s research agenda.To be eligible for consideration, companies had todemonstrate a proven track record associated withthe monitoring of noise disturbance on wildlife,provide proof of environmental liability insuranceand be bondable. In 2007, pre-qualified contractorswere given an opportunity to submit proposals toconduct research for the Institute.MEMORANDA OFUNDERSTANDINGThe Institute has Memoranda of Understanding withthe Department of National Defence, the Innu Nation,the Naskapi Nation of Kawawachikamach, thegovernment of Newfoundland and Labrador, thegovernment of Quebec, and the Labrador InuitAssociation. These allow the Institute access to datasets in the possession of these organizations whilerecognizing their ownership of the information.Berries on NWR RoadQuébec and Labrador communities andthe low-level training areaResearchActivitiesThroughout 2007 the research agenda for theInstitute was conducted on a contractual basis withcontinued support from DND, Aboriginal Nations andthe governments of Quebec and Newfoundland andLabrador. Contractors worked closely with the SRCto ensure the completion of several reports and thecontinuation of some multi-year studies.With limited military training in 2007, the Institutehas focused its monitoring and research initiativeson collecting basic ecological data on species whichcould be vulnerable to noise disturbance from highlevel military training. Considerable attention hasbeen allocated to the development of the BoomCastModel. Once validated, this predictive model willserve as an important tool in assessing noiseprojection from military training activities includingsupersonic and night training initiatives.In 2008, the Institute will define the monitoringprotocols for the VECs which have been identified aspotential candidates for noise disturbance from theseproposed new training options.

EnvironmentalMonitoring and ResearchWOODLAND CARIBOUWoodland caribou in Labrador and Quebec are listedas threatened under the SARA. This includes the RedWine Mountains Caribou Herd, the Lac JosephCaribou Herd, and caribou found in the Joir Riverarea of southern Labrador. The SRC have identifiedissues of concern with the distribution of woodlandcaribou in the southern boundaries of the trainingarea associated with training block CYA 733.In 2007 under a service agreement with the Institute,the Wildlife Division of the government ofNewfoundland and Labrador undertook populationsurveys/censuses of the sedentary Lac Joseph, RedWine, and Joir River caribou. The results, outlinedin reports filed with the Institute, focused on theproductivity and classification as well as the spatialand temporal distribution of woodland animals.In anticipation of proposed new training initiatives,the SRC and Caribou Technical Committeedetermined that over time any new collardeployments or replacements associated withwoodland caribou be GPS-satellite hybrid collars, asfine-scale GPS (global positional system) locationscan provide precise, remote, and nearly real-timecaribou locations. In 2007, the Institute purchased23 of these new collars and plans are underway tohave these deployed during the 2008 field season.The data obtained from these collars will enablethe Institute to assess the movements of woodlandcaribou within the southern portion of the trainingarea and will be used to assist 5 Wing Goose Bay todetermine appropriate mitigation measures.Happy ReunionStatus:• In 2008 any new collar deployment orreplacements on woodland caribou will be withGPS-satellite hybrid collars.Red Wine Mountains Caribou Herd(RWMCH)Presently there are fourteen VHF (very highfrequency) collars and four satellite collars deployedon the RWMCH. Due to the high cost of aerialsurveys, the government of Newfoundland andLabrador, in partnership with the Institute, haveagreed to replace all of the VHF collars withTelonics GPS-satellite hybrid models in 2008. Thesenew collars will provide a much greater accuracy fordetermining caribou locations on a regular four dayreporting cycle. In the event of the introduction ofnew training initiatives, they could be programmedfor more frequent transmissions.Status:• In 2007 the government of Newfoundland andLabrador conducted a survey of the RWMCH toreview the status of the existing VHF collars.• The Institute, in collaboration with thegovernment of Newfoundland and Labrador, hasagreed to replace the existing VHF collars withGPS-satellite hybrid collars. These new collars willbe deployed during the winter of 2008.• The government of Newfoundland and Labrador, incollaboration with the Institute, will conduct asecond late winter classification of the RWMCHearly in 2008.• The SRC will review the results from the fieldstudies and provide guidance to the Institute Boardfor future monitoring initiatives on the RWMCH.Joir River Caribou (JRC)There are currently eight satellite collars and fourGPS-satellite hybrid collars deployed on the JRC.The government of Newfoundland and Labrador, inpartnership with the Institute, conducted adensity distribution and classification of theseanimals in 2007. During these surveys, twocollars were replaced with GPS-satellite hybridcollars. The movements of these animals willcontinue to be examined to determine if they are infact part of a recognized herd or a separatepopulation. Early work indicates that they may beinteracting with members of the Mealy MountainCaribou Herd (MMCH) at certain times of the year.Current work conducted on the MMCH by thegovernment of Newfoundland and Labrador providesa unique opportunity to compare the dynamics andmovements of these two groups of caribou.2 0 0 7 A n n u a l R e p o r t I n s t i t u t e f o r E n v i r o n m e n t a l M o n i t o r i n g a n d R e s e a r c h P a g e 9

P a g e 1 0 I n s t i t u t e f o r E n v i r o n m e n t a l M o n i t o r i n g a n d R e s e a r c h 2 0 0 7 A n n u a l R e p o r tStatus:• The government of Newfoundland and Labrador,in collaboration with the Institute, will conduct asecond late winter/early spring density, distributionand population estimate survey in 2008.• The Institute will consider installing additionalcollars on the Joir River animals following theanalysis of the field survey by the Wildlife Divisionof the government of Newfoundland and Labrador.• The Institute continues to explore with theMinistère des Ressources naturelles et de la Faunedu Québec the feasibility of conducting a survey inthe Quebec portion of training block CYA 733 of themilitary training area (MTA) in 2008-2009.• The SRC will review the results from the fieldstudies and provide guidance to the Institute’sBoard for future monitoring initiatives on the JRC.Lac Joseph Caribou Herd (LJCH)There are eleven satellite collars and two VHF collarson the LJCH. The government of Newfoundland andLabrador, in partnership with the Institute, willcontinue to collect and compile data collected by thesatellite collars currently deployed on this herd. TheInstitute is exploring with the Ministère desRessources naturelles et de la Faune du Québec thefeasibility of conducting a winter survey on theQuebec range of the LJCH in 2008-2009.Status:• The government of Newfoundland and Labradorconducted a classification survey of the LJCH earlyin 2007.• The Institute, in collaboration with the WildlifeDivision of the government of Newfoundland andLabrador, will be replacing the current VHF andexisting Argos collars with GPS-satellite hybridcollars as they reach the end of their reportingschedule.• The government of Newfoundland and Labrador,in collaboration with the Institute, will conduct asecond late winter classification of the LJCH earlyin 2008.• The SRC will review the results from the fieldstudies and provide guidance to the Institute’sBoard for future monitoring initiatives on the LJCH.George River Caribou Herd(GRCH)As of March 31, 2006, with the expiration of the MOUwith the Allies, DND terminated its fundingagreement with the governments of Quebec andNewfoundland and Labrador for continuedmonitoring of the GRCH. Following a review of theinformation required, the Institute agreed to enterinto contractual arrangements with both governmentsto ensure a continuation of the monitoringinitiatives associated with the George River Herd.Status:• Given the reduction in military training and thetermination of funding by DND to the governmentsof Quebec and Newfoundland and Labrador, theInstitute conducted a feasibility analysis on thecontinued collection of data on the GRCH.• The Institute agreed to fund the cost of processingthe Argos data by CLS America to the governmentof Quebec for the duration of the current mandateof the Institute. In return, the government ofQuebec provides data to the Institute fromtwenty-five Argos collars.• The government of Newfoundland and Labrador iscurrently providing data to the Institute from fourcollars on the GRCH and are exploring thepossibility of providing the Institute with data fromten collars in 2008. The Institute has agreed toprovide funding to the government ofNewfoundland and Labrador once they providedata for ten collars.• Following a review of the data, the SRC will providea recommendation on future data collection for theGRCH.• The Institute purchased three GPS-satellite hybridcollars, which were deployed on the GRCH by theWildlife Division of the government ofNewfoundland and Labrador in 2007.HABITAT DATABlack DuckThe need for relevant habitat data has been identifiedas a priority for many Institute sponsored projects.The Institute continues to acquire high-resolutionIkonos imagery datasets for portions of the LLTA.Due to extensive cloud coverage during the 2007collection period, this dataset was not enhanced in2007. This order has been carried over for 2008 atwhich time the Institute plans to obtain Ikonosimagery for the core area of the RWMCH.Status:• The Institute will continue to acquire additionalIkonos imagery in 2008 to cover the range ofwoodland caribou, particularly the RWMCH.

P a g e 1 2 I n s t i t u t e f o r E n v i r o n m e n t a l M o n i t o r i n g a n d R e s e a r c h 2 0 0 7 A n n u a l R e p o r tData CompilationThrough a cost sharing agreement between the WildlifeDivision of the government of Newfoundland andLabrador and the Institute, a one year Data Coordinatorposition was advertised and filled in 2007. As apartner, the Atlantic Canada Conservation Data Centrehas agreed to administer this position and providetechnical support. The focus of the small mammaldata compilation project is to compile all informationand data sources on small mammal studies completedin Newfoundland and Labrador from 1960 to 2005.Small Mammal Trapping ProgramIn 2007 the Institute partnered with the governmentof Newfoundland and Labrador, Innu Nation,Nunatsiavut government, and the Metis Nation to putin place a small mammal trapping program. In Junethe Institute hosted a training session to introducethe trapping protocol to ensure that data wascollected and comparable across all study sitesduring the fall trapping program. As a partner tothe program, the Institute conducted a trappingcampaign at Park Lake and Anne Marie Lake.A small mammal identification and databasingworkshop was held on the samples received. Thisjoint partnership program was very effective andthere is agreement to continue this program on anannual basis.Status:• The Institute entered into a cost-sharing agreementwith the government of Newfoundland andLabrador to conduct a data compilation survey onsmall mammal from 1960-2005.• The compiled data set will be housed at the AtlanticCanada Conservation Data Centre in Corner Brook.The data will provide a reference background forfuture small mammal studies in Newfoundland andLabrador.• The results of the 2007 small mammal trappingprogram are currently being compiled and theresults will be published to the Institute’s web siteonce the analysis is completed.Snow mouseArctic Hare• The government of Newfoundland and Labradorwill be responsible for the management and storageof all data and samples associated with the smallmammal monitoring network.• In 2008 the Institute will continue a small mammaltrapping program at two sites within the trainingarea as part of its contribution to the monitoringnetwork.• The Institute will continue to collaborate with thegovernment of Newfoundland and Labrador todevelop a trapping protocol and training video to beused by all the participants in the network.• The Institute will continue to assist interestedAboriginal groups in setting up small mammalmonitoring networks within their communities byproviding the traps and co-sponsoring with thegovernment of Newfoundland and Labrador atraining workshop on small mammal trapping.BARROW’S GOLDENEYEBarrow’s Goldeneye nest at high altitudes withinfishless lakes and therefore could be exposed to noisedisturbance associated with future militaryactivity, such as supersonic training. As thisspecies is presently considered as a species of specialconcern under the SARA, it is important that theappropriate mitigation measures are implemented.Information on the occurrence, distribution andabundance of this species is required beforeappropriate mitigation and avoidance measures canbe taken; therefore, in 2007 the Institute awarded acontract to LGL Limited for a preliminary assessmentof Barrow’s Goldeneye nesting within the proposedsupersonic training area CYA 732. The Institute isdeveloping a monitoring program in collaborationwith CWS to conduct a field survey within CYA 733for the 2008 field season.

Status:• The report “Barrow’s Goldeneye HabitatIdentification and Population Survey” was acceptedas presented and has been filed to the Institute’slibrary and web site.• In collaboration with CWS, the Institute willconduct a field study in 2008 to define the statusof the Barrow’s Goldeneye particularly in CYA 733.The objectives for this field study would be to:o Develop a field monitoring protocol for surveysto assess a sample of sites with high potential forbreeding Barrow’s Goldeneye.o Undertake a field monitoring program to confirmthe occurrence or absence of breeding Barrow’sGoldeneye.GOLDEN EAGLESIn anticipation of supersonic training, a surveyprogram was initiated in the LLTA for Golden Eaglenests in 2005. The objective of this work was tore-examine previously known nests and to locate newnests and to assess their status and condition. Activenest sites were documented for consideration duringplanning of future monitoring studies for supersonictraining.In 2006, a monitoring program was conducted tocollect baseline observations of nesting Golden Eaglesin the absence of (prior to) noise and visualdisturbance associated with future training activities.Only one active nest was found and it was notdeemed suitable for observations. It is noted that thepoor nesting success may be related to the declinein small mammal populations in 2005, and thus thedecreased food supply that persisted into 2006. In2007 the Institute awarded a contract to MinaskuatLtd. to conduct a survey within the LLTA. The studyteam visited fourteen Golden Eagle nests, of whichthree were found active. Given the currentdistribution of Golden Eagles in CYA 732 and theirlocation for observation, future effects monitoringwould need closer access and more sophisticatedobservation blinds for evaluating ‘subtle’ aspectsof nesting behaviour.Status:• The 2007 field study report “Baseline Monitoring ofGolden Eagle in the LLTA” has being reviewed bythe SRC and will be recommended for approval bythe Board in 2008.• Given the sensitivity associated with nest location,the geo-referencing data is filed at the Instituteoffice.• The SRC is reviewing the feasibility of conductingGolden Eagle, Bald Eagle, and Osprey habitatidentification and monitoring program for the 2008field season.Picturesque ViewFIELD TESTING OFNEST MONITORSThe environmental effects monitoring related to thelow-level military aircraft training at 5 Wing GooseBay has addressed a variety of issues dealing withseveral species of avifauna. Conducted with supportfrom DND, studies have been directed at priorityspecies and have addressed parameters of interestaccording to their ability to be measured objectivelyand based on the biological significance of the effectbeing measured.The Institute has continued to work with thecompany TenXsys Inc. to develop an egg-shapedNestMonitor (“thermister”) in its efforts to continueto investigate the potential adverse effects of militarytraining. This device will help researchersdetermine if and for how long an adult remains off anest following a disturbance using changes inambient temperature as an indicator. Ambienttemperatures and noise exposures can be measureddirectly from the nest with accuracy verified by fieldobservations. The use of NestMonitors would obviatethe need for visual observations, thereby reducingbiases induced by researcher disturbances. TheNestMonitors are capable of measuring decibel levelsand nest temperature (at the surface of the ‘egg’) andwill also be equipped with a VHF signal to facilitaterelocation should the nest be raided by a predator.In 2006 the Institute contracted the services of theconsulting company Minaskuat Ltd. to field test theNestMonitors on Canada Geese, Bald Eagle andOsprey. As this technology was highly experimental,it was proposed to test the NestMonitors incombination with visual observations. During theinitial program, technical problems were reportedand in March 2007 a workshop was arranged withTenXsys Inc. to address these concerns.2 0 0 7 A n n u a l R e p o r t I n s t i t u t e f o r E n v i r o n m e n t a l M o n i t o r i n g a n d R e s e a r c h P a g e 1 3

P a g e 1 4 I n s t i t u t e f o r E n v i r o n m e n t a l M o n i t o r i n g a n d R e s e a r c h 2 0 0 7 A n n u a l R e p o r tIn follow up, in 2007 a revised field program wasconducted by Minaskuat Ltd. using nesting BaldEagle, Osprey, and Canada Goose. The technologicalcapabilities of the NestMonitors to record both noiseand temperature at the surface of this device weredemonstrated; however, they could not differentiatebetween proximal and distal noise events. Finalreports for these programs have been reviewed bythe SRC and accepted by the Institute’s Board.Additionally, in 2007 the Institute issued a RFP towork with five Canada Goose nests near the GooseBay Airport to compare the influence of adultbehaviour on noise signature and temperaturelevels. This work was completed under contract byMinaskuat Ltd. and a final report has been filed withthe Institute.The opportunities for the use of this technology forsimilar studies related to the potential effects ofmilitary training on the environment are extensive.The challenge will be to ensure the experiment isdesigned in such a manner as to isolate theparameters of interest in the sensors of theNestMonitors. The longevity of the battery, extensivestorage capacity and ease of transport, deploymentand retrieval suggest additional applications for theInstitute.Status:• The SRC and technical experts met in March 2007with representatives of TenXsys to discuss theresults of the 2006 field testing of the NestMonitors. They agreed that the nest monitors canserve a useful function in future noise monitoringinitiatives; however, their use must be carefullydefined in order to ensure that the appropriatenoise events are captured and recorded.• The 2006-2007 report “Field Testing of NestMonitors – Bald Eagle and Osprey Component” hasbeen filed to the Institute’s library and web site.• The 2006-2007 report “Field Testing of NestMonitors – Canada Goose Component” has beenfiled to the Institute’s library and web site.• The 2007 report “Field Testing of Nest Monitors– Canada Goose Component” has been filed withthe Institute and reviewed and accepted by theSRC. It will be reviewed by the Board in 2008.• The Institute will not conduct any further testing ofthe noise monitors until they have an indication ofthe level of military training.• The Institute will deploy NestMonitors in the fieldduring any night time training initiative which maytake place in 2008.ASSESSMENT OFSUPERSONIC TEST FLIGHTSOver the past three years, DND has undertaken toprepare an environmental assessment (EA) to besubmitted to the government of Newfoundland andLabrador to conduct supersonic flight training at the5 Wing Goose Bay Air Ranges. This is in responseto a need to expand the previous training activitiesand to meet changing operational requirements of airforces from foreign nations.It was evident from the literature reviews conductedin recent years that information is not readilyavailable for all of the species that may be impactedby supersonic training. It has been recommended bythe SRC that the noise disturbances and overpressuresgenerated by supersonic training must bemitigated, particularly if the floor training level is setat 5,000 feet above ground level. A mitigationprogram based on the existing data may seemeffective now; however, as more data is collectedon the impacts of supersonic booms, the mitigationprogram may require alterations to be truly effective.Over the past two years, the SRC have spentconsiderable time working with the technicalexpertise of Dr. Kenneth Plotkin from Wyle Labs andRWDI Air in developing the BoomCast Model. Thispredictive model incorporates PC Boom and BooMapto determine noise disturbance thresholds on VECsacross the landscape. The purpose of this work isto assist in determining, from a meteorological orclimatological perspective, what times of year are lessrestrictive for supersonic training activities over theCYA 732 training airspace. In 2007 two workshopswere held to assist the SRC in identifying the VECswhich should be considered in future monitoringinitiatives. Following the compilation of the resultsof these workshops along with the collation ofinformation which was provided by the Aboriginalcommunities, the SRC will reconvene a smallcommittee of expertise to assist them with thedevelopment of a risk assessment threshold for eachimportant VEC to determine what would constitutean acceptable noise disturbance level.Status:• Given the current knowledge on the effects ofmilitary training on wildlife, an adaptivemanagement approach should be an integralcomponent in developing a monitoring andmitigation program.• In May 2008, the SRC and a panel of expertise willconduct a risk assessment for the VECs that couldbe impacted by future military training initiatives.• The BoomCast model is currently being beta tested,and the Institute will conduct field testing as soonas a training scenario is defined by DND.• In 2008 a demonstration of the model will bepresented to the Institute’s Board.Waterfowl

EconomicMonitoring and ResearchECONOMIC IMPACT STUDYPreviously, the Institute completed three reportsassociated with the economic impact of military flighttraining in Labrador and Northeastern Quebec.These studies qualitatively and quantitativelyassessed the economic impacts of military flighttraining for this region. The last of these reportsconcluded that the study area has recovered fromthe psychological and economic shock that itexperienced as a result of downsizing andalternative service delivery, but it is now about toenter a new period of readjustment with thedeparture of the Allies.LobstickIn 2006 the Economic Committee and DND revieweda study proposal submitted by the consulting firmAMEC. There was agreement that a two-part studybe undertaken. Firstly, an economic survey wasconducted on a select number of industries andbusinesses in Goose Bay in the late fall of 2006. Thesecond phase of the study was completed in 2007with the objective to conduct a detailed economicimpact analysis of the economic activities directlyattributable to 5 Wing Goose Bay for the fiscal year2006-2007.Status:• A final report incorporating the results of theeconomic survey and the results from the input/output model has been received by the Instituteand is currently being reviewed by the SRC andthe Economic Committee. Once the review iscompleted, the SRC will recommend futureinitiatives to the Institute’s Board.Fireweed at Voisey’s Bay2 0 0 7 A n n u a l R e p o r t I n s t i t u t e f o r E n v i r o n m e n t a l M o n i t o r i n g a n d R e s e a r c h P a g e 1 5Partridge

P a g e 1 6 I n s t i t u t e f o r E n v i r o n m e n t a l M o n i t o r i n g a n d R e s e a r c h 2 0 0 7 A n n u a l R e p o r tCommunicationsMaintaining a sound communication strategy is avital role of the Institute. Communicationactivities foster a level of trust amongst all groupsaffected by the military training program.Information on Institute projects, activities andresearch is freely available to the public through theweb site (www.iemr.org) and, on request, from theoffice.FIRST NATIONSCOMMUNICATION ANDSUPPORT STRATEGYIn 1998 the First Nations Communication and SupportStrategy was established to provide a communicationlink between the Aboriginal communities affectedby the low-level flying program, the Institute’sresearchers, members of the SRC and non-Aboriginalmembers of the Board of Directors. In each community,the Liaison Officer met with committees ofAboriginal Experts recognized for their knowledge ofthe territory and its wildlife. The primary goal of theprogram was to inform the Expert Committees of theInstitute’s work and to communicate an understandingof their concerns to the SRC and the Institute’sBoard of Directors. In 2005, a final round of visitsunder this program was conducted to thank themembers of the Expert Committees for their valuablecooperation, to provide an update on Institutesponsoredresearch projects, to review the futurefor the Institute and to obtain comments from theAboriginal experts on how they felt about thecommunication program. A final report on thesevisits has been filed with the Institute.Morning ReflectionIn 2007 the Chair met with the representatives of theAboriginal communities to assess the options whichcould be initiated by the Institute to support the FirstNations Communication and Support Strategy. Giventhat the military training options for Goose Bay arenot clearly defined, it was agreed that an interimprogram would focus on activities associated with theidentification of the important VECs and thepresentation of the EA for supersonic flight training.These community consultations were defined by theAboriginal Board members and funded by Institute.Status:• The Institute has developed with thecollaboration of the Aboriginal Board members aninterim communication and information strategyfor the coming year which will focus on the reviewof the EA associated with the proposed supersonictraining program.CONFERENCESSince 1997, the Institute has sponsored fourworkshops/conferences. Proceedings for thefollowing can be made available through the officeor at www.iemr.org in editions of Terra Borealis.• Traditional and Western ScientificEnvironmental Knowledge• Effects of Noise on Wildlife• Waterfowl• Exploring Future Training Options

Northern WaterthrushIn September 2006, many Institute Board membersattended the Night Strike 2006 - Freedom of FlightAerospace Conference and Exhibition held at 5 WingGoose Bay. This provided an excellent opportunityfor members to build on their knowledge of nightoperations. In addition to a range of topics on therole of Goose Bay in the international aerospaceenvironment, a dedicated conference sessionhighlighted community diversification.In November 2007, the Institute Board membersattended the UVS Canada “Expanding Horizons”conference in St. John’s, Newfoundland andLabrador. This unique conference addressed issuessurrounding airspace access, technical standards,international cooperation, defence and security andthe latest results from cutting-edge research anddevelopment.At the 154th Meeting of the Acoustical Society ofAmerica Conference held in New Orleans,Louisiana, in November 2007, Dr. Kenneth Plotkinmade a presentation on the “Monitoring, Predicationand Management of Sonic Booms in a ValuedEcosystem”. This work was co-authored by Dr. LouisLapierre, Chair of the Institute, and Mr. WayneBoulton of RWDI Air.In November 2008, the Institute will be acollaborating partner with the government ofNewfoundland and Labrador as they host the 12thNorth American Caribou Workshop in HappyValley-Goose Bay. The theme of this workshop is“Integrating Understanding Across Ecotypes”.INSTITUTE PUBLICATIONSAll Institute publications are available in Frenchand English and can be obtained either through theweb site or by contacting the main office. Thesepublications include conference proceedingspublished in editions of Terra Borealis and annualreports.WEB SITE (www.iemr.org)The Institute’s easily navigated web site providesaccess to what’s new at the Institute, includingupdates on events and research activities, severallibrary databases and photo galleries. Visitors areinvited to register with an e-mail database to benotified of updates as they occur.Pretty PoserPHOTO CONTESTThe 7th Annual IEMR Photo Contest proved to bevery successful in 2007 with 43 entries. Photos hadto be of wildlife, wildlife habitat or landscapes andhad to be taken within the Quebec-LabradorPeninsula. All entries were posted to the Institute’sweb site, and visitors to the site were invited to votefor their favourite photo. Some of the entriesreceived are printed throughout this annual reportand the winning photo graces its cover. The photosused throughout this report reflect the work of thoselisted on its inside cover and includeentries from Board members,government employees, researchersand members of the general public.2 0 0 7 A n n u a l R e p o r t I n s t i t u t e f o r E n v i r o n m e n t a l M o n i t o r i n g a n d R e s e a r c h P a g e 1 7Hebron Bay

P a g e 1 8 I n s t i t u t e f o r E n v i r o n m e n t a l M o n i t o r i n g a n d R e s e a r c h 2 0 0 7 A n n u a l R e p o r tProject Component Issues11. The panel recommended that thelocation of a second practice targetarea be assessed by the Institute beforeNewfoundland and Labrador governmentapproval of the site is requested.Appendix A:Follow-Up on Panel Recommendations and Government DecisionsPANEL RECOMMENDATIONS GOVERNMENT DECISIONS INSTITUTE RESPONSESocial Impacts22. The panel recommended that theInstitute undertake studies to determinethe extent of resource harvesting activityon the land and the impact that low-levelflying might have on Aboriginal andnon-Aboriginal resource harvesting.Health Impacts25. The panel recommended that studiesof hydrocarbon concentrations in fueldumping areas include the behaviourof petroleum hydrocarbons in aquaticsystems.Labrador OutportThe Government accepted thisrecommendation and it wasreferred to the Institute.Government accepted thisrecommendation and referred itto the Institute.Government accepted thisrecommendation with anexplanatory comment. “TheDepartment of National Defencewill continue its current workon hydrocarbon concentrationsin fuel dumping areas and willrefer the research on thebehaviour of petroleumhydrocarbons in aquaticsystems to the Institute”.In the event that DND confirms a requirement for areconfigured or a second PTA at a future date, theInstitute will undertake an assessment and present itsrecommendations to the appropriate authorities.In 2006, the IEMR collated background informationwhich could be used to assess the location of futuresites.There were no additional discussions on the locationof additional practice sites in 2007.The IEMR and the Western Newfoundland ModelForest have agreed to:a) Continue a cost-sharing program to purchaseIkonos data for the LLTA.b) Partner with the Innu Nation to develop a forestbasedhabitat analysis of the forested lands withinthe LLTA.c) Explore the possibilities of sharing the Ikonos datawith the Innu Nation. This aspect will focus on theidentification of critical caribou habitat.d) Explore future funding arrangements to identify theimpact of logging on critical caribou habitat.The IEMR continues to partner with Canadian ForestService with the development of a revised forestclassification using the IKONOS data purchased byIEMR.The IEMR will continue to purchase additional IKONOSdata in the coming year in order to support theclassification of the RWMCH.The IEMR has requested that DND provide an annualreport on the frequency and location of major fueldumps. This report should include the volume of fueljettisoned.The IEMR has requested that DND provide anup-to-date digital map set of all fuel dumps. Thisdigital data should be made available for review bythe Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal communities.The IEMR has collaborated with the LabradorContaminants Working Group for the completion of acontaminants database for Labrador which isaccessible at www.lcwg.ca.The IEMR did not support any initiatives regardinghydrocarbon concentration during 2007.

PANEL RECOMMENDATIONS GOVERNMENT DECISIONS INSTITUTE RESPONSE27. The panel recommended that acontinuing program of monitoring andstudy be carried out to ensure that noiseeffects do not remain undiscovered andunmitigated. Particular attention should bepaid to monitoring the impact of noise onthe school environment.Natural Environment Issues30. The panel recommended that astudy to determine the behavioural andpopulation responses of Osprey andBald Eagles to overflights be an effectsmonitoring priority.Neat StandGovernment accepted thisrecommendation and it wasreferred to the Institute.Government accepted thisrecommendation and it is to beimplemented as appropriate,following consultation withprovincial authorities, theInstitute, stakeholders or otheragencies.Previous studies reviewed by the IEMR indicated thatthe current noise disturbance within Spruce Park andthe surrounding areas comply with the acceptableCanadian guidelines. Robert Leckie School, which waslocated in Spruce Park, has been closed since 1998.Should supersonic training take place, the IEMRwill undertake a field monitoring program. Noisedisturbance around the aerodrome will be monitoredduring the evening segments of this training initiativeto ensure that noise levels do not cause unduedisturbances. Particular attention would be allocatedto noise disturbance within Spruce Park shouldtraining occur during the evenings.Should military transport aircraft (transall) trainingbecome an important component of the trainingactivities, the IEMR will assess the noise disturbanceassociated with it within the LLTA.The IEMR has finalized a working version of Boom-Cast. The predictive model is currently being betatested by the IEMR. Following the initial verification,IEMR will proceed with a field testing of the model.After a review of the results of four years ofmonitoring of Osprey populations conducted by DND,the IEMR agreed to continue a long-term monitoringprogram of Osprey population trends and reproductionsuccess within and outside the LLTA. This monitoringprogram identified any sudden changes within theOsprey population and also provided additional datathat could help to assess the residual impacts thatcould not be confirmed from the previous DNDstudies.In 2007, the IEMR finalized the fifth year of itslong-term monitoring program of Osprey populationtrends and reproductive success both within andoutside the LLTA. The results indicate that annualvariances do occur in the populations located withinand outside the LLTA. However, the results to date donot indicate any significant long-lasting trends.The IEMR will proceed with the analysis of the Ospreydata collected. Following the analysis, IEMR willreconvene a technical workshop to assess the resultsof the analysis and determine if future field monitoringis required.2 0 0 7 A n n u a l R e p o r t I n s t i t u t e f o r E n v i r o n m e n t a l M o n i t o r i n g a n d R e s e a r c h P a g e 1 9

P a g e 2 0 I n s t i t u t e f o r E n v i r o n m e n t a l M o n i t o r i n g a n d R e s e a r c h 2 0 0 7 A n n u a l R e p o r tPANEL RECOMMENDATIONS GOVERNMENT DECISIONS INSTITUTE RESPONSE31. The panel recommended thatthe important breeding, moultingand staging concentrations ofwaterfowl in the unsurveyed areascovered by Option “B” be givenpriority.Shoal Point Inukshuk32. The panel recommended thatthe Institute consider whether theidentification of potential nestinghabitat of Harlequin Ducks needs tobe undertaken and if it can beaccomplished as an add-on to otherfield studies (e.g. river valley study).Terrington BassinGovernment accepted thisrecommendation.Government acceptedthis recommendation andreferred it to the Institute.Following a review of the Moulting Black Duck Study, the SRCand Waterfowl Technical Committee members recommendedthat the IEMR not continue this project. Should field monitoringdata indicate a need for additional information, the project couldbe reviewed.The IEMR will review the results of the spring staging waterfowlstudy.In 2005, in collaboration with DND and CWS, the IEMRconcluded a second year of field investigation on the impacts ofmilitary aircraft on nesting Canada Geese. The results indicatethat Canada Geese do demonstrate a strong behaviouralresponse to military jets, helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft;however, the results do not indicate any significant long-termpopulation impact.Egg shaped nest monitors were integrated into the 2006 and2007 field program to measure noise dosage and temperaturesat the nest during incubation. Upon review of the results, theIEMR recommend that although the nest monitors can serve auseful function in future noise monitoring initiatives, their usemust be carefully defined in order to ensure that the appropriatenoise events are captured and recorded. The IEMR will notconduct any further testing of the noise monitors until they havean indication of the level of military training.The IEMR is continuing an analysis of waterfowl habitat usingIkonos satellite imagery.In anticipation of the introduction of military supersonic flights,the IEMR has initiated a study on the Barrow’s Goldeneye. Thisspecies nests at high altitudes within fishless lakes, and theycould be vulnerable to noise disturbance. As this species ispresently listed as a species of special concern under the SARA,it is important that the appropriate mitigation measures areimplemented.The IEMR completed a preliminary survey on the distribution ofbreeding Barrow’s Goldeneye within training block 732 of theMTA during the 2007 field season.In 2008 in collaboration with CWS, the IEMR will conduct asurvey within training block 733 of the LLTA. Following thissurvey an assessment will be conducted to determine if futureassessment is required.In 2004 the IEMR reviewed the results of the four years ofstudies conducted on Harlequin Duck. Following this, in consultationwith the CWS and DND, it was agreed that the closures onHarlequin Duck would be lifted within the LLTA. As a condition, athree year population trend survey was to be conducted.Surveys were conducted in 2005 and 2006 by the CWS and thepreliminary results have been reviewed by the SRC. A decisionto have four years of monitoring conducted over a five yearperiod has been made.A population trend survey for Harlequin Duck was not conductedin 2007. A RFP was developed to conduct a two year studyin 2008 and 2009, and a contract has been awarded to LGLLimited.The IEMR will assess the results of the four field seasons todetermine what future monitoring may be needed to ensure thatHarlequin Duck populations are not unduly disturbed by militarytraining activities.Following a review of the analysis, the SRC will recommend tothe Institute’s Board what additional studies may be required.

PANEL RECOMMENDATIONS GOVERNMENT DECISIONS INSTITUTE RESPONSE33. The panel recommended that,depending on the information generated bybaseline studies in the new flight trainingconfiguration and armed with knowledgeof how many of the 1400 proposed nightsorties are low-level, the Institutedetermine if the impact of night sortiesneeds to be monitored.34. The panel recommended that prioritybe given to studies aimed at describingriver valley resources and monitoringprograms to evaluate impacts of theProject and wildlife resources in them.36. The panel recommended that a studybe undertaken to determine the locationsof winter moose concentrations in theOption “B” configuration before the area isreleased for flight training.MooseGovernment accepted thisrecommendation and referred itto the Institute.Government accepted thisrecommendation and referred itto the Institute.Government accepted thisrecommendation and it is to beimplemented as appropriate,following consultation withprovincial authorities, theInstitute, stakeholders and otheragencies.The SRC has reviewed the preliminary results of theBoreal Owl Study and has agreed to terminate theproject. The results from the field study havedemonstrated that Boreal Owls could serve as anappropriate surrogate for a noise disturbance study;however, due to the limited number of subsonicflights, it was agreed that future field initiatives shouldbe phased into the supersonic initiatives.The IEMR has completed the review of the two fieldstudies that were conducted on nocturnal speciesand, from the data obtained they did not confirm anymajor impact on the species studied.The IEMR had planned to conduct nocturnal fieldsurveillance during the night strike exercises in 2007.This exercise was cancelled.The IEMR will conduct nocturnal field surveillanceduring future night training sessions which may beplanned for the 2008 field season. The monitoringinitiatives will focus on waterfowl, raptors, owls andbats.The IEMR has completed studies on Gray Jays andBoreal Owls; both species are known as river valleydwelling species. However, with the reduction ofsubsonic flights within the LLTA, the need to focuson river dwelling species is not considered a priority.The nature of supersonic training will not require afocused use of river valleys as priority pathways.The IEMR has completed the studies of Boreal Owlsand bats. Following a review of the future trainingrequirements, the IEMR will assess the need for anyadditional studies.The IEMR will include monitoring initiatives associatedwith river valley ecosystem related species during thefuture training program initiatives.The IEMR has collected data on moose distributionduring its field sampling of caribou at both the LacJoseph and Red Wine areas. A report was filed as aninterim report to the IEMR. The results did not warrantany further assessment at that time.The IEMR has initiated a RFP which will assess themoose distribution within the MTA. The field study willtake place in 2008. Following the completion of thefield study, the SRC will review the data and assess ifadditional changes are required to the currentmitigation program.2 0 0 7 A n n u a l R e p o r t I n s t i t u t e f o r E n v i r o n m e n t a l M o n i t o r i n g a n d R e s e a r c h P a g e 2 1

P a g e 2 2 I n s t i t u t e f o r E n v i r o n m e n t a l M o n i t o r i n g a n d R e s e a r c h 2 0 0 7 A n n u a l R e p o r tPANEL RECOMMENDATIONS GOVERNMENT DECISIONS INSTITUTE RESPONSE37. The panel recommended that, in viewof the increased number of sorties, foodchain monitoring studies be carried out.Mouth of the RiverCaribou38. The panel recommended acontinuation of the Red Wine caribou calfsurvival study.Caribou39. As a precautionary measure, the panelrecommended that the seasonaldistribution of the Lac Joseph Herd beestablished prior to the commencement offlying in the reconfigured training area todetermine if adjustments should be madeto the training area’s western boundary.Government acceptedthis recommendation andreferred it to the Institute.Government acceptedthis recommendation andreferred it to the Institute.Government accepted thisrecommendation and it is to beimplemented as appropriate,following consultation withprovincial authorities, theInstitute, stakeholders or otheragencies.The IEMR has completed a two-year study on GrayJays. The study was conducted at the end of the GooseBay airport runway. There was a wide variety of noisedisturbance along with a statistically valid populationof Gray Jays. The results from the study indicated thatthere was no significant difference in the behaviour ofGray Jay populations at the end of the runway and at thecontrol site.The IEMR completed a study of Boreal Owl and its preyspecies. The results of the study indicate that BorealOwl productivity is closely linked with the abundanceof small mammals. No significant impact from thelow-level training program can be attributed to changeswithin the natural cycles of small mammals.The IEMR will review the need for additional studies oncethe future training requirements are clearly defined.The IEMR is reviewing the status of the RWMCH followingthe designation of woodland caribou as endangered.Noise monitoring collars have been purchased by theIEMR and DND, which will facilitate the understanding ofnoise disturbance on the RWMCH.The IEMR will work with the government ofNewfoundland and Labrador to identify and implementan effective noise monitoring program in the next year.The Wildlife Division of the government of Newfoundlandand Labrador completed a population assessment of theRWMCH during the winter of 2007.The IEMR in collaboration with the Wildlife Division ofthe government of Newfoundland and Labrador willconduct a second population assessment of the RWMCHduring the winter of 2008. The results of the survey willbe reviewed by the SRC and recommendations will bereviewed by the IEMR for future monitoring andassessments.The IEMR has purchased a series of satellite hybridcollars to replace the VHF collars which are currentlydeployed on the woodland caribou herds. Thedeployment of the collars will take place during thewinter and spring of 2008 in collaboration with theWildlife Division of the government of Newfoundland andLabrador.The IEMR in collaboration with the governments ofQuebec and Newfoundland and Labrador will assessthe feasibility of initiating a noise collar monitoringprogram on the LJCH.The Wildlife Division of the government of Newfoundlandand Labrador conducted a survey and assessedthe population structure of the LJCH during the 2007winter field season.The IEMR will continue discussions with the governmentof Quebec on the possibility of a future jointassessment of the movement of the herd betweenQuebec and Newfoundland and Labrador. The IEMRwill also deploy some new collars on the LJCH.

PANEL RECOMMENDATIONS GOVERNMENT DECISIONS INSTITUTE RESPONSEMitigation and Avoidance41. The panel recommended that theInstitute examine the success of the“in-town” mitigative measuresproposed in the EIS and suggestmodifications to these measurementsas required in the future.42. Until adequate baseline studieshave been completed in the new areasto be over flown, the panelrecommended that flying continue tobe conducted in the present low-leveltraining areas with no reduction at thistime in current avoidance criteria.48. The panel recommended thatinformation be transmitted to the publicon the work being done by the Institute,the changes to the avoidance programand results of research and complianceauditing.49. The panel recommended thatcompliance monitoring be conductedby the Institute for activities associatedwith low-level flight training in Labradorand Quebec.Government accepted thisrecommendation and referred it tothe Institute.Government accepted thisrecommendation with explanatorycomment. “The Allies will, in 1995,use the current Option “A” area withno reduction in avoidance criteria;the planned 1995 field work will beaccomplished so that the part of thereconfigured (Option “B”) area thatis studied may be released for usein 1996; a baseline study programwill be implemented immediately sothat the Institute will have sufficientdata to recommend appropriateboundary changes to ensure that100,000 km² is available for trainingas the Project progresses fromOption “A” to the Option “B” trainingarea.”Government accepted thisrecommendation and referred it tothe Institute.Government accepted thisrecommendation with explanatorycomment. “Compliance monitoringis conducted in Canada under theAeronautics Act and regulations.DND will continue to monitormilitary aircrew compliance of flyingregulations and orders and will turnover compliance monitoringinformation, including all informationon real and perceived flightviolations, to the Institute to allowthe Institute to perform a valid auditof the compliance monitoringactivities. The frequency of theinformation flow will be asdetermined by the Institute”.The IEMR has completed three reports associatedwith the economic impact of military flight training inLabrador and Northeastern Quebec.The IEMR will review the results of the 2006-2007economic impact study and determine if additionalinformation is required.Baseline studies were completed in 1996 by DND andreconfiguration was implemented in consultation withthe resource management agencies and provincialgovernments. The Institute will continue to review theresults of the initial (1996) and additional (1997-2000)baseline studies and provide recommendations onavoidance criteria as required.The IEMR is working on developing a monitoring andmitigation options template which will be integratedwithin an adaptive management framework. Thisframework will assist in identifying the potential noiseimpacts associated with supersonic training as wellas propose a series of mitigation options.The IEMR held two workshops in 2007 to reviewthe important VECs which should be included in therevised mitigation program.The SRC will review the data from the two workshopsand determine how the results will be integrated intothe monitoring program. Following this review, theSRC will recommend a revised program to the IEMRBoard.The two-way flow of information remains a priorityof the Institute. A communication and informationstrategy, regular Institute publications, conferencesand the IEMR website all aim to enhance the flow ofinformation within the communities.The IEMR has developed, in collaboration with therepresentatives of the Aboriginal communities, acommunication and information strategy that will enablethe IEMR to share information effectively with thecommunities impacted by the training program duringthe review of the supersonic EA by DND.DND has obtained ISO certification. The IEMRreviewed the results of the audit completed for DND’sISO re-certification and agreed that no additional auditwas needed to comply with this recommendation.There were no low-level training sorties in 2006;therefore, there was no need for IEMR to conduct anaudit of the mitigation activities. The IEMR will revisethe audit process when low-level training activitiesare reinstated.There were a limited number of training sorties in2007. The IEMR will review the audit process conductedby DND to assess if the compliance monitoringwhich is required from DND is being met.2 0 0 7 A n n u a l R e p o r t I n s t i t u t e f o r E n v i r o n m e n t a l M o n i t o r i n g a n d R e s e a r c h P a g e 2 3

P a g e 2 4 I n s t i t u t e f o r E n v i r o n m e n t a l M o n i t o r i n g a n d R e s e a r c h 2 0 0 7 A n n u a l R e p o r tPANEL RECOMMENDATIONS GOVERNMENT DECISIONS INSTITUTE RESPONSE51. The panel recommended thatavoidance and effects monitoringprograms be integrated for the sakeof cost effectiveness and efficientproject management.52. The panel recommended that, inan attempt to ensure the bestprotection of the environment, allparties (Aboriginal, non-Aboriginal,federal, provincial and DND) areinvolved as equals in thedecision-making and review processfor the monitoring program.53. The panel recommended that allparties be involved in the setting ofobjectives for the futuremonitoring program and theevaluation of acceptable levels ofimpact.Northern LabradorGovernment accepted thisrecommendation withexplanatory comment. “TheDepartment of NationalDefence will ensureintegration of the avoidanceand effects monitoringprograms that it will beimplementing between nowand the time the Institute isestablished. Thisrecommendation will also bereferred to the Institute”.Government accepted thisrecommendation withexplanatory comment. “AnInstitute for EnvironmentalMonitoring and Research willbe established. It will be anadvisory body reporting tothe Ministers of Environmentand National Defence and isintended to foster a level oftrust among all groups affectedby the low-level flyingactivities…”See above comment forrecommendation #52.The IEMR has proposed a revised program that would see theInstitute integrate the role of avoidance and effects monitoring.The IEMR has received approval for a renewal of its activitiesuntil March 2010. The IEMR has a new mandate, which willenable it to conduct and oversee all monitoring and effectsresearch associated with future military training.The IEMR is presently reviewing all of its monitoring andresearch initiatives.The IEMR has signed a revised MOU with DND that ensures thatall monitoring activities are now conducted by IEMR. The IEMRis also in the process of preparing a revised monitoring programwhich will ensure a continuous flow of monitoring data to DND.The Institute continues to explore opportunities to integrate itsresearch and monitoring activities with broad communityrepresentation and scientific participation as described in thisannual report. The IEMR is ensuring that Aboriginal groupsare kept informed of the research initiatives of the Institute.Continuing contact with the Aboriginal communities is assuredthrough the IEMR communication and outreach program.The IEMR meets regularly with the representatives from theAboriginal communities to assess the present program and toconsider new options that will reflect the requirements of therevised training options.The IEMR is currently reviewing its communication andinformation exchange program. A revised program will bereviewed by the IEMR Board during the coming year.IEMR is continuing to involve representatives from the Board attechnical committees and workshops.In collaboration with DND and the provincial governments, theIEMR continues to review research and set new objectives forthe development of a monitoring program through its TechnicalCommittees, the SRC, community representatives andindependent scientists that will reflect the changing needs ofthe flight training program.The IEMR continues to collaborate with DND, the Aboriginalcommunities and the provincial agencies from both Quebec andNewfoundland and Labrador in order to incorporate themonitoring needs of the revised training program.The IEMR continues to meet on a regular basis with representativesfrom the governments of Quebec and Newfoundland andLabrador to address issues of mutual concern.The IEMR also meets regularly with Aboriginal representatives toreview issues of mutual concern.The IEMR hosted two VEC workshops in 2007 to assess thenoise avoidance criteria that will be required to ensure that allspecies are protected from adverse noise disturbance fromfuture military training.The IEMR will review the results of the VEC workshops whichwere held in 2007 and assess how the noise avoidance criteriawill be integrated in the monitoring program to ensure that allimportant VECs are protected from adverse noise disturbanceduring future military training.

BoardOF Directors MEETINGSTechnicalCommitteesScientificReview CommitteeAppendix B:2006 Conferences and MeetingsApril 24-25November 6Happy Valley-Goose Bay, NLSt. John’s, NLAboriginal Representatives February 13 Montreal, QCNoise Monitors /Collars Advisory Committee March 27Quebec, QCWaterfowl TechnicalCommittee March 28 Quebec, QCCaribou TechnicalCommittee May 8 Halifax, NSAboriginal Representatives May 24 Ottawa, ONAboriginal Representatives August 22 Quebec, QCEconomic CommitteeMarch 29April 13May 30-31July 4-5August 8-9August 29-30October 1-2November 5December 12November 26 Happy Valley-Goose Bay, NLQuebec, QCConference CallHalifax, NSGuelph, ONHalifax, NSSt. John’s, NLHalifax, NSSt. John’s, NLConference Call2 0 0 7 A n n u a l R e p o r t I n s t i t u t e f o r E n v i r o n m e n t a l M o n i t o r i n g a n d R e s e a r c h P a g e 2 5Beach Grass Voisey’s Bay

P a g e 2 6 I n s t i t u t e f o r E n v i r o n m e n t a l M o n i t o r i n g a n d R e s e a r c h 2 0 0 7 A n n u a l R e p o r tConferences,Workshopsand MeetingsNewton, LabradorLabrador WoodlandCaribou RecoveryTeam MeetingAttended byTony ParrUAV StudentCompetitionAttended byMaureen Baker andNatasha CanningVEC WorkshopHosted byIEMRSmall MammalTraining WorkshopHosted byIEMRVEC WorkshopHosted byIEMRUVS CanadaConferenceAttended by Boardmembers and IEMRstaffMarch 21-22May 4-6May 9-10June 12September 26-27November 7-9Happy Valley-Goose Bay, NLHappy Valley-Goose Bay, NLHalifax, NSHappy Valley-Goose Bay, NLHalifax, NSSt. John’s, NL